Niagara’s wine community is mourning the loss of one of its most prolific contributors after Paul Pender, 54, was found dead in a Selkirk, Ont. home.
Pender was the award-winning head winemaker at Tawse Estate Winery in Vineland and a beloved community member. Police said he was declared deceased last Friday after having been found by officers who responded to a local address.
The circumstances around his death are still unclear. The cause of death has not been announced but a 31-year-old Hamilton man has been charged with second-degree murder in relation to the incident, OPP said.
The incident is still being investigated by Haldimand County OPP Crime Unit as well as other branches within the force.
Tawse Estate’s owner Moray Tawse said in a statement that Pender was not only an esteemed colleague, but ‘a good friend as well.’
Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton also issued a statement on the passing of the winemaker.
“On behalf of Town Council and Staff, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to Paul’s family, friends and colleagues; as we know this heartbreaking loss will be deeply felt by many.”
Officers investigating Pender’s death are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who may have information to assist with the investigation, to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
Those wishing to remain anonymous, may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.helpsolvecrime.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
Our local Ontario wine industry is heartbroken. We have tragically lost an industry legend, Paul Pender. ⁰Paul touched the lives of so many people and deep sadness has spread near and far. pic.twitter.com/Q9qzAGQm1k
— Wine Country Ontario (@WineCountryOnt) February 6, 2022